Final answer:
Lung fluid retention, also known as pulmonary edema, occurs when fluid builds up in the lung tissues and air spaces. This can happen due to various reasons such as heart failure, kidney disease, or damage to the lung tissue itself. The excess fluid prevents proper gas exchange, leading to difficulty in breathing and oxygenation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Health: Lung Fluid Retention
Lung fluid retention, also known as pulmonary edema, occurs when fluid builds up in the lung tissues and air spaces. This can happen due to various reasons such as heart failure, kidney disease, or damage to the lung tissue itself. The excess fluid prevents proper gas exchange, leading to difficulty in breathing and oxygenation.
A common cause of lung fluid retention is pneumonia, which is an infection or injury of the lungs that results in the alveoli filling with fluid. Another condition that can contribute to lung fluid retention is emphysema, where the walls of the alveoli break down due to smoking. In both cases, the impaired gas exchange can result in decreased oxygen levels and the need for supplemental oxygen.
For most cases of lung fluid retention, the prognosis is usually favorable. With appropriate treatment and management of the underlying cause, the condition typically self-resolves within hours to days. However, the specific prognosis may vary depending on the severity and underlying health condition of the individual.